Ancistrorhynchus
(pronounced: an-ciss-troh-RINK-uss)
Classification
Vandeae subtribe Aerangidinae
Overview
Monopodial epiphytes often forming clumps. Stems short, rooting at the base, Leaves alternate, distichous, strap-shaped. Inflorescences axillary below the lowermost leaf, short, densely-flowered heads, the floral bracts inconspicuous. Flowers white, sometimes marked with green. Sepals and petals free, spreading, subsimilar, subequal. Lip unlobed or obscurely three-lobed, sessile, with a funnel-shaped spur. Column straight, erect, with broad apical wings, the rostellum elongate, folded back on itself; pollinia 2, on separate stipes, the stipes convergent on an elongate common stipe, the stipe folded back on itself in natural position.
Etymology
From the Greek ankistron, meaning hook, and rhynchos, meaning snout, referring to the rostellum which is folded back on itself to form a hook.
Distribution
A genus of about 14 species widespread in Tropical Africa.
Care and Culture Card
See basic growing conditions and care information below.
Grow plants of Ancistrorhynchus in pots or baskets with a medium-grade epiphyte mixture. Provide bright diffuse light, intermediate to warm temperatures, and regular watering throughout the year. In general, plants of Ancistrorhynchus do best when pot-bound.
Literature
Cribb, P. J., F. M. van der Laan and J. C. Arends 1989. Two new species of Orchidaceae from West Africa. Kew Bull. 44:479-483. Summerhayes, V. S. 1944. African Orchids, XIV. Bot. Mus. Leafl. 11(7):201-214.
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